Whether you are newly diagnosed, have lived with the disease for a long time, or know somebody who has, there are great resources to help you educate yourself about the disease, connect with others, afford health care, fight against stigma, and discover the latest research.
Education
One common misperception about psoriasis, says Nicora Gardner, health education manager at the National Psoriasis Foundation, is that it’s merely a skin disease. “It’s a systemic disease of the immune system that can affect more than your skin,” she says. Psoriasis can increase your risk for “heart disease, depression, obesity, and diabetes,” says Gardner, which is why she says it’s important to educate yourself about the disease and the treatment options.
PsoriasisNet. This site from the American Academy of Dermatology covers everything you need to know about psoriasis and includes sections on causes, treatments, triggers, minimizing flare-ups, and finding a dermatologist in your area. Support
Because it is a visible and chronic illness, psoriasis affects more than how you feel physically. “The mental-health aspect is huge,” says Gardner. “It’s easy to become isolated and depressed. Building a support team beyond your physicians is invaluable. It helps with self-esteem and isolation, and provides a feeling of acceptance for people who have a very visible disease.” WeArePsoriasis.org. Share photos and treatment experiences, join communities based on mutual interests, and connect with people around the world at this active social-networking site for people living with psoriasis.
Psoriasis Patients. People with psoriasis share tips, treatment advice, and feelings about living with the disease on this social-networking site, which also includes blogs and information about upcoming events.
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